Translating to “not intoxicated,” amethyst is symbolic of clarity, cool-headedness and wisdom. According to mythology, amethyst – a variety of quartz – was stained violet through the tears of wine from the Greek god of intoxication, Dionysus.
While colorless quartz is found in nearly every corner of the earth, the amethyst variety is considerably rarer. It has long been thought to possess healing powers, and has been sought after by rulers like Catherine the Great, the High Priests of early Judaism, and other religious and political leaders. It was widely used to form chalices and goblets, as it was thought to protect its owner from the dangers of drunkenness.
Amethyst can be found in a variety of hues, from a light pinkish violet to deep purples. The most sought-after variety, called Deep Siberian, is a dark purple.